Joy to the World!

Hi Everybody! It's me again! Chemo #3 went off without a hitch. More good news that the tumor continues to shrink! All my levels were within normal range and that concern I mentioned is something they will keep an eye on but it doesn't seem to be anything serious. YEAH!! The Dr. and nurse we met with were very encouraging. My chemo buddy this time around was a great friend who just makes me smile! We had a lot of fun, met some nice people and thankfully, didn't get kicked out of chemo for being too silly! Although, she ALSO beat me at cards! Are you noticing a pattern here? WANTED: A chemo buddy who lets me win at cards!

We are asking for prayers that again, side effects will be minimal and we can enjoy the holidays with family and friends! I'm looking forward to hugging some friends, nieces and nephews I haven't seen in a while. (You've been warned, guys!) Also, for continued good health for us. And, praise that the chemo is doing it's thing!

So, while we are feeling better about our situation, I can't help but think about people I care about who are right now going through their own personal grief. A recent cancer diagnosis of a young father, grieving the loss of a loved one, dealing with an ill parent, financial situations....ths list goes on. At this time of year, when it seems we are all supposed to resemble a happy Christmas card, it just makes things that much more difficult! Having Christmas "joy" can just be really tough! But, then we need to remember the MEANING of the word joy.....Joy as a fruit of the spirit is much more than "happy" because it transcends circumstances, surprises, disappointments, pain, life and even death. Nehmiah 8:10 says "The Joy of the Lord is our strength." As a Christian going through a tough time, what a blessing to have TRUE joy of hope in Him. And, at Christmas, that is something even this "Grinch" can truly celebrate ...the genuine joy that came down to us at Christmas.

We wish you all a joy-filled holiday season, no matter whether you are experiencing storms or sunshine! Have a beautiful 2008! Thank so much for stopping by!

In His Strength,


Cindy & the VK's

Here we go again!

Hi friends! The time is drawing near for Chemo #3. That happens this Thursday, on December 20. All in all, it's been a pretty good 2 weeks. I felt a little more tired, but hey, it's Christmas time! You find me ANY parent who isn't a little more tired this time of year! It's been kind of interesting as I've come to appreciate the days I'm feeling "good." This past week was really a fun one! A night out with a girlfriend, our Small Group Christmas party (always a lot of laughs!), dinner and a show with friends, laughing with the kids at school, Worship on Sunday, dinner with Dave's folks, our daughter's Christmas Band concert....just "normal" stuff. I commented to Dave on Sunday that I've had chunks of time when I've just forgotten I HAD cancer. It was just such a good feeling! And, truthfully, I think it's a little harder this time knowing I'll be feeling rotten during the holidays. But, on the flip side, it's nice to know when this one is over, I'll be half-way done with chemo!! And, knowing that the chemo is doing it's thing and the tumor is responding, well, that just makes it easier to swallow! And, I know it could be worse so I can't complain!

I'd really appreciate prayers again that all my levels will be okay so chemo can stay on schedule. I've got one thing that concerns me so please pray it isn't anything serious. Prayers of thanks for good health, especially during cold and flu season! Also, we are so grateful for the ways we are being loved through this! It has been an amazing experience and literally brings me to tears of thanksgiving!

I'll update again after chemo. Thanks for stopping by!!

In His Strength,



Cindy & the VK'S

Isn't She Lovely?

Wow! It's been a while since my last update. So, thought I'd take a moment to let you know what's been going on. My 2nd "post-chemo" experience has been SO much better than the first! First, I was much less anxious this time around. It was more like "oh yeah, I remember this." Those prayers for peace were definitely answered! I felt a tad more tired but nothing a little sleep doesn't cure! Dave said he can always tell when I'm feeling better because I'll start to "argue" with him about things. Who? Sweet little agreeable me? Surely he is mistaken! :-)

I was correct in saying the hair dryer would outlast the hair. The Friday after chemo I was losing large clumps of hair. I tired of finding it in my mouth, on the couch and figured one swift wind and it would be gone anyways. So, I called my good friend and hair dresser and she was able to take me that afternoon to do the "buzz." I was okay at first but Saturday it really bothered me for some reason. That night, I walked into my bathroom, put away my hair dryer and curling irons and I'll admit, had a little cry. Sunday morning I woke up and just felt "ugly." Society puts such emphasis on looks and I wasn't liking what I saw. I decided to remind myself what God holds of value and turned to Proverbs 31. Yes, that chapter that talks about the "perfect" woman. We all "hate" her, don't we ladies? (I once saw a shirt that said "I'm a Proverbs 32 Woman.....I sleep in until noon and my house is a mess." Hysterical....I want one!) I just wanted to be reminded that "Charm is deceptive and beauty is vain; But a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." However, as I scanned the chapter, verse 25 caught my eye. "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." It stopped me in my tracks and I thought "I'd much rather laugh that feel sorry for myself!" Dave and I had a good talk that night, and I can honestly say I've made peace with my bald head. Bald is beautiful, baby! I've got a great wig...and life goes on!

Prayers would be appreciated for continued health. And, that during this crazy, busy, stress-filled holiday season, ALL of us have a chance to celebrate the birth of our Savior! HE's the reason for the season!

In His Strength,



Cindy and the VK's

I'm on the Top of the World!

Yep...it's me again! I just had to share some incredible news. We had our second chemo session today, which went really well! (Aside from Dave beating me at cards!) Before chemo, we met with the Dr, who examined me. She said the tumor has shrunk about 4 centimeters!! This just amazes me that from ONE session, we had such a great response!! To put things into perspective, the tumor was at about 10 centimeters so that is a significant reduction. The Dr. said she is "very pleased!" So are we!! I'm doing the dance of joy!

Tonight at dinner devotions, it was my turn to read the Bible. I did okay but when I got to this verse, I got rather choked up and had to pass the Bible to Dave to finish....."And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. " (2 Corinthians 9:8) What an incredible encouragement to be reminded that in ALL things at ALL times, we have ALL we need! We are surrounded by God's grace to do His work. We are not on our own power because God makes His grace abound to us! Even on those days we are tired, frustrated, or feeling cruddy, He can still use us! I guess I never really thought about it like that.

Speaking of feeling cruddy, if last time is any indication, Saturday, Sunday and Monday will be the days I'm really beat. But, somehow, I think they'll be a little "sweeter" knowing we are making progress!

So, to my wonderful prayer warriors, major PRAISE for this great news!!

In His Strength,



Cindy and the VK's

Give Thanks, with a Grateful Heart!

Hi All! It's been a while so I thought it was time for another update. We had a fabulous Thanksgiving with a lot for which to be thankful! I've always really liked Thanksgiving...it's a low key holiday with none of the pressure to "be merry" or perfect gift expectations. Instead, it's a chance to gather with friends and family, eat lots of good food and be grateful for our blessings. (Plus I love all the pumpkin and pilgrim decorations! They are just so cute!) This year, our list of things for which we are thankful was a little different.....we were thankful for an excellent oncologist, for all the love, support and prayers of everyone throughout this ordeal and for the way God has placed so many "medical" people in our live to help answer our questions. Our Pastor had a great sermon Thursday morning where he pointed out we are told to to be thankful IN all circumstances, not necessarily FOR all circumstances. I can honestly say I don't know that I'll ever be thankful for cancer. But, we can be thankful for the way God takes care of us through our trials. And, that is something for which we are, well, thankful!

Chemo #2 happens this Thursday. This appointment will be proceeded by labs where they will check several things to make sure I'm healthy enough for another session. Please pray that everything will be okay so we can continue with treatment. I'm also grateful for a really good past week! I'm hoping that now that I've gone through this once, I'll know a little bit more what to expect. Also, please pray for peace....it's a bit unsettling when each new thing occurs wondering "Is this normal?" I'm definitely learning that I'm NOT in charge right now!

Oh, and the hair is still there, although I'm "shedding" quite a bit. My hair dryer is making a horrible noise and I'm wondering what will go first, the dryer or the hair! My money is on the hair!

I hope that all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! Thanks again for your love and support!!

In His Strength,


Cindy & The VK's

Just Give Me a Head with Hair, Long Beautiful Hair...

Okay Ladies....let's be honest. We have all looked in the mirror at one point or another and thought "I HATE my hair." I know I have! When I was young, it was thin and never did what I wanted it to do. I was from the generation of the Farrah Fawcett curls and it never seemed to want to "flip" correctly. As I got older, I found a fabulous stylist and friend who understands my hair and knows how to clip, color and style it so it behaves. And, although it's not perfect, it's mine and I like it! It's a weird feeling to look in the mirror and know it will probably be gone in less than a week. I've been told hair loss usually begins on day 14, which will be Thanksgiving. I heard on the radio that for 60% of women facing cancer, losing their hair is their number one worry. Yeah, I can relate. I'm wondering if I will resemble the female version of Mr. Clean.

However, as usual, my dear hubby put things into perspective. He reminded me that although the chemo will make me lose my hair, it's saving my life. We're told in Matthew 10:29-31 "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." I know that God will see me through yet another part of dealing with this cancer. Who knows....maybe my wig will be even better than my own hair! Plus, I'll get to pick out some cute hats and scarves. I'm already thinking that getting ready in the morning will take less time. And, of course, the "frugal" part in me appreciates the money I'll save on my hair the next year. But, I'll honestly admit, I'll look forward to it's return!

Our first "post-chemo week" went pretty well. I felt great the day after and thought "this isn't so bad." But, Saturday morning, the extreme fatigue set in and I did a lot of sleeping over the weekend. I also experienced a couple of annoying side effects, one that warranted a return trip to the Dr. but nothing serious. I'm definitely on the upswing and hoping things will remain stable until my next chemo session on Thursday, November 29.

A real concern of mine is getting sick so please pray that our family stays healthy! Also, for the side effects of the chemo to subside. Praise that I was able to work this past week..it was good to be there. And, as always, that the chemo will do its thing and shrink that tumor!!

Thanks for stopping by and "hairs" to you for your prayers and support! :-)

In His Strength,


Cindy and the VK's

We've Only Just Begun.....

Hi Friends! Today was our first chemo session. It's the first step in what will be a tough battle but it felt SO good to finally be doing something! We arrived down at Rush around 9:30 and met our chemo nurse who was wonderful! She was a Christian lady who had such a gentle spirit and we really hit it off well! We were given a private room, since it was our first treatment. It was a little disconcerting hearing all the side effects that could happen while receiving the drugs and then to make matters worse, before we began with the chemo drugs a woman nearby had a really bad reaction and things sprung into high gear. The doctor was called, nurses went running....things were pretty tense for a few moments. Thankfully, she was treated quickly and was able to continue her chemo. Not something you want to see when you are waiting to begun. I'm happy to report things went very smoothly for us. We had no problems with any of the meds. We can feel how we are being bathed in prayer!!! Dave and I came prepared to wait because we had been warned. We brought books, magazines, movies, cards, MP3's, blankets, snacks, laptops. It's like we were moving in! Pretty hysterical! We landed up playing cards all day. Dave destroyed me the first game but I came back and beat him the next two. He CLAIMS he let me win, but sorry, I'm not buying that!! :-) We arrived home around 6 pm and enjoyed a great dinner. The nurse doubts I'll have too much stomach problems because they gave me a ton of drugs to curtail that. Tiredness should kick in tomorrow. We'll see how that goes.

I had an epiphany early this week because this past weekend, I spent a lot of time worrying. Turns out my ankle was actually fractured so I worried about needing a cast (thankfully, I didn't!). I worried about chemo, I worried about our kids, I worried about long term survival, I worried I won't be able to work due to poor white blood counts, I worried about the cancer coming back, (uh, Cindy....let's get rid of it first!). Thankfully, God hit me over the head with this passage....

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[b]?

"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' (Comment from CVK: Does this mean I don't need to cook or do laundry? Ha ha!) For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:25-29

Now, I realize, we all have more "worries" ahead....it's just human nature. I don't think God wants us to bury our worries, put on a happy face and say everything is great all the time. He knows that we are frail. But, we do need to carefully examine these verses and realize that we DO need to seek HIS kingdom first. Personally, I love verse 27 that says.. Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? What a great statement! Instead, I know I wasted time worrying, rather than enjoying the moment. This will be an ongoing challenge for me!

Well, I've rambled on long enough. We truly can't thank you all enough for your prayers...it's a gift of unmeasurable comfort and strength to all of us! Please pray for minimal side effects, that I will stay healthy to do my job (I love the staff and kids at TC, they make me smile!!), and for health for our family. If we can pray for something for you, please don't hesitate to let us know!!!

Thanks for reading this epic! Have a great weekend!!

In His Strength,

Cindy and the VK's

P.S. I had to take of picture of Dave's shirt! Isn't it great?

Some days you're the windshield, some days you're the bug!

Did you ever just have "one of those days?" That was yesterday for me! It started out well enough with Bible Study, I ran into a good friend at the grocery store and then went home and got some work done. But, at 2:40 pm, I received a call from my surgeon. I could tell she was upset. She first apologized for always having to call me with bad news and then went on to say the biopsy confirmed it was Inflammatory Breast Cancer. It almost felt like being diagnosed all over again. After the biopsy on Monday, I was really beginning to think it wasn't going to be the "bad" kind. But, it was. I had about an hour to pull myself together before Erin came home. I talked to some friends and family and that really helped. Erin arrived home and I helped her get ready with her costume and went outside to take photos of her and her friend. However, when I stepped off our front stoop, I twisted my ankle something horrible and landed up on my front lawn, in some serious pain. Thankfully, my neighbor was getting her mail and she helped me get up and limp into the house. All I could think was "You have GOT to be kidding!" You reach a point where you just got to laugh, you know? I said I think the sprained ankle was God's way to help me keep my mind off the diagnosis! A good friend stopped by in the evening and by the time I limped off to bed, I felt better about the whole thing. We're just back with the original diagnosis.

We have decided to go with the Dr. at Rush and spoke to their office today. They wanted one more scan, this time of my heart. Details fell into place quickly and that will be taking place tomorrow. Then, chemo will begin next Thursday, November 7. I'm told it will be a total of six sessions and they'll take place every three weeks.

Ever since I received the news yesterday, Romans 8:38-39 has kept running through my head. (with a small edit from me, in red) See kids? Memorizing scripture really IS important! :-)

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, (including cancer!) will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I know these weren't the results we had hoped and prayed for, but I am confident that God will carry us through this storm!! Absolutely NOTHING can separate us from His love!!

We'd be grateful if you could pray for continued peace for our family and that the treatment will be effective! The surgeon did say it's very unusual that it hasn't spread, considering the size of the tumor. That is very encouraging news!! Please pray that we will have positive interactions with the staff and other patients at chemo. Also, please pray that my ankle feels better!

Here's praying that everyone has a "windshield" rather than "bug" kind of day!!

In His Strength,



Hop-a-Long and the rest of the VK's

We're all in this together!

(Apologies to all our friends with young kids. This blog title could make you break into a song from Disney's "High School Musical! )

One thing that has become apparent to Dave and I the past few weeks is that cancer touches everyone's life. Some are survivors, some are still fighting, some have lost loved ones, some are support to those who are battling. Our family has lost friends, both young and old to this deadly disease. We've heard stories of encouragement and strength. Many have gone through this before us and many will follow. This blog tells the story of our unique journey through a new world of procedures, medical jargon, decisions and difficulties. But, we know that we, and anyone else who walks through the valleys of life, never walks alone. What a blessing to be part of the family of God and know that our Father is leading the way!

The skin biopsy took place on Monday. Now, we wait (I'm getting better at it!) for results, probably on Thursday or Friday. Not too much else to report. Just please pray for good results and not IBC, (I'm starting to sound like a broken record!) and for peace with the treatment plan. We are learning there are many things to consider and we want to make wise decisions, with help from our doctors.

So, that about sums up what is new over at the VK's. I'll update again once we get results from the biopsy. Thanks for stopping by!!

In His Strength,


Cindy and the VK's

(Is it just me or does that sound like it could be a name of a 70's band?) ;-)

God is in Control!

This past Thursday morning, after a cruddy night's sleep, I woke up in a frustrated mood. Although we had received some hope the night before, I couldn't help but think....."Wow...if this IS IBC, we are wasting precious time!" Everything I had read and heard said time is of the essence with treating this type. The Dr. reassured me it's more important to know what kind we are treating and another week won't make a difference. However, the "Control Freak" in me just wants to get started!!

As I went to get breakfast, I saw a book I had received the day before from a friend entitled "Grace for the Moment" by Max Lucado. I opened it up and on the first page I read this...

"He [God] stands between us and our need, waiting to help us. For that reason, the Bible says "Let us boldly approach the throne of our gracious God, where we may receive mercy and his grace to find timely help." (Hebrews 4:16 NEB). Did you note those two last words? "Timely help." Not too soon, not too late,. Just on time."

WOW!! Talk about your "burning bush" moment!! Again, I just turned this whole thing over to God (it's going to be an on-going process!) and felt such peace!! His timing is perfect....who am I to question that?

On the medical front, the skin biopsy is scheduled for Monday morning. I'm told results won't be back until Wednesday or Thursday, so I'm thinking Friday. :-) Until then, we have a lot of things to keep us busy and will live in the moment, knowing God is in control! Keep praying!!


In His Strength,


Cindy and the VK's

P.S. Speaking of hope, (and on a MUCH different level) GO BEARS!!!

I Hate This Part!

I LOVE roller coasters! However, I detest going up that first big hill....it makes me a nervous wreck. I even have a little thing I say as the cart clicks upwards. Friends who sit next to me think it's hilarious as I chant "I hate this part, I hate this part, I hate this part." But, once the car reaches the top and zooms downhill, I'm the fool in the front row, hands up, laughing my head off. I LOVE that feeling. Well, right now, I feel like we are still on our way up that hill and uncertain what happens next. I hate this part!

We met with the specialist today down at Rush. It was a long appointment but we are so glad we went. Basically, she felt they can't be sure that it IS Inflammatory Breast Cancer. Several of the results of my Path report didn't jive with typical IBC symptoms. It is definitely some form of breast cancer....they just aren't sure which one. So, they have ordered a skin biopsy which will give them a little more information. If it comes back positive, then it IS IBC and we'll begin with chemo. If it comes back negative, we'll most likely have surgery first, although it still COULD be IBC. Surgery would then be followed by chemo. Truthfully, the prognosis is MUCH better if it is just a "normal" kind of breast cancer. (It would be nice to be "normal" for a change! Ha ha!) So, to all our prayer warriors out there who like to pray for specific things...please pray it ISN'T Inflammatory Breast Cancer. Also, that things will fall into place with this next biopsy.

As we continue this roller coaster ride, we are so thankful we know WHO is driving! We are confident that God will never steer us off course and know that He supplies our pure joy. Thanks so much for the prayer support and going on this "ride" with us!!

In His Strength,


Cindy and the VK's

Oh what a beautiful morning, Oh what a beautiful day!!

YEAH! We heard from the Dr. today that the CAT scan showed no suspicious findings and as he said "things look very very good!" So, it looks like it has not spread!!! It's amazing how your perspective changes in the course of two weeks. We are SO thankful to be at "only"a 3b cancer stage! Praise the Lord! I feel a little bit like it's a pregnancy....we got good news (relatively speaking!) and we know we have a tough road ahead......nausea, headaches, tiredness, hair loss, surgery (hopefully no swelling ankles!) but at the end, we have a beautiful NEW life and things will never be the same!!

Things are falling into place with Dr.'s as well. We've had so many "God-sightings" through this and is has been amazing to watch as everything has pointed to one Dr. at Rush. We'll be seeing her next Wednesday. We are still waiting to hear about one more test that will determine what kind of chemo I'll be needing. We were told it could start as early as next week. We are waiting to talk to the Dr. today. Again, more waiting!! :-)

My Public Service Announcement of the day......Ladies, GET YOUR MAMMOGRAMS! (Yes, I'm "shouting!") Know the symptoms....they aren't all the same. Early detection is key!!

We are definitely feeling the prayers! We have a "peace that passes understanding" and we are grateful to you for lifting up our family! Thanks for the comments....we've loved reading them!! Have a great weekend, everybody!

In His Strength,

Cindy and the VK's

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord

My favorite verse has always been Isaiah 40:31. "And they that wait upon the Lord, He will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings as eagles. Then will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint."

Let me tell you, we've learned a LOT about waiting! Waiting in the Dr.'s office, waiting for test results, waiting to tell people, waiting for sleep to come, waiting for a definite diagnosis. Just a lot of waiting! By nature, I don't consider myself to be a real patient person sometimes. But, God gives us that extra grace in times like this. And, I'm learning to wait!!

Today I talked to both the surgeon and oncologist. The surgeon let me know that it IS Inflammatory Breast Cancer. This rare and agressive type of cancer is staged at a 3b when it discovered. But, the good news is that it can be treated and cured, provided it hasn't spread. Also, we are thankful to report that the PET Scan came back as good news! He saw one little nodule he said "lit up" on the scan, but he thinks that could be swelling from the biopsy. Other than that, nothing else! So, one down, one to go!

Our prayer request continues to be that is hasn't spread. Also, that we will have wisdom when it comes to choosing treatment. We have some awesome drs. that are doing all they can to help us through this. We would like to have peace that we have made the correct decision. We are so thankful and humbled by everyone's prayer support and love! We know we are in HIS perfect strength because of it!

So, here's my hubby's humorous comment of the night. (With apologies to all my blonde friends!)
Dave wanted to know if my hair grows back darker, if I'll be any smarter. Feel free to voice your outrage to Dave! :-)

In His Strength,

Cindy and the VK's

In Christ Alone.....

“In Christ alone my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song;
This cornerstone, this solid ground,Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all—Here in the love of Christ I stand.”

Dear Friends,

Well, if you found my blog, you probably heard the news. I was recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Life as we know it changed over the course of three days…..Last Tuesday I had a mammogram, Wednesday afternoon I was sent to the surgeon for a biopsy and by 11 o’clock on Thursday morning, Dave and I found ourselves meeting an oncologist. It still seems pretty surreal. So, I decided to start this blog, for several reasons….

1. To communicate prayer requests – if there are specific things for which we need prayer, I’ll post them here. We know we are going to need a lot of prayer support!

2. To pass along information and share news, good or bad.

3. Let’s face it….I’m a computer geek! Why not join the blogging revolution? There is wireless Internet at Chemo so this will give me something to do.

Several different "types" of breast cancer have been discussed and we are waiting on some tests to know exactly what we are dealing with and how to best treat it. I had a PET Scan on Saturday (10/13) and a CAT Scan is scheduled for Wednesday (10/18). One of the types that they think I may have is a rare and agressive form of breast cancer. It is considered a Stage 3b when discovered. We are praying it isn't that!! Another BIG prayer request right now is that is hasn’t metastasized!

We are very thankful for an awesome oncologist! He is actually a cancer survivor himself so he’s been there and understands. This week in Bible Study Fellowship we talked about how Jesus can sympathize with us because he lived as a man and felt the same feelings we do. It was an interesting parallel and made me REALLY grasp that Christ KNOWS how we feel…..quite a comforting thought, especially under these circumstances.

Feel free to drop us a line on the blog….I’d love to hear from you!

In His Strength,

Cindy and the rest of the VK’s